Second Trimester – Prepare Your Body Well for the Honeymoon Period

Clara was overjoyed! She was in her second trimester of pregnancy (14th week) and the doctor had confirmed it to be a girl. She and Marc had always wanted a girl to grace their family first. Finally, she could go shopping for her maternity clothes and plan out the nursery. However, there was additional news too. Though she was regular with her exercise routine, Omega 3 content in her body was below normal range – she had to increase her consumption.

So, are you nervous, as you too approach your second trimester? Well, there’s nothing to worry!

During the usual 42 week gestation period – this second trimester is known as ‘honeymoon period’, courtesy the return of energy. From fluttering movements in your belly to gaining some weight – this period is most energetic for women embracing motherhood.

Dear would-be-mothers – it is time that you keep a know-how of all the symptoms and ‘what to do/what not to do’ list handy. Scroll down – you will get all your answers in a jiffy!

Second trimester is here – The fetus is developing!

The period between (week 13 – week 27) is stated to be the second trimester of pregnancy. During this period, the fetus starts moving – from kicking to swallowing to sucking and finally sleeping. Women during this period experience ‘quickening’ – with the fetus growing 8 to 12 inches long.

That’s not all! The baby’s nervous system, reproductive organs and limbs are developed. What’s more? You can hear its heartbeat FOR THE FIRST TIME!

As your uterus grows upward, you can see abdominal growth and certain changes in your skin tone. Also, stretch marks develop in your belly with increased sensitivity to sun.

Second trimester symptoms that you must know:

Your sex drive will be back! Gone are the days of nausea and fatigue! In your second trimester of pregnancy, you suddenly feel energetic. However, there are certain other symptoms that you cannot miss –

The second trimester diet chart you must follow

When you are in your second trimester of pregnancy, your pregnancy diet needs to have folic acid and vitamin supplements. Apart from that, strawberries, fish, sesame seeds, carrot juice, and spinach should make it to your list.

As per latest data available – 2200 calories is adequate for a pregnant woman in second trimester. Vitamin D and calcium supplements are musts!

Emergency medical conditions

Women – be very careful! Some discomfort is part of your pregnancy routine, but if you find these medical conditions –

Vaginal bleeding soaking more than a single pad

Grey or pink colored clots of tissue passing through vagina

Severe abdominal pain

Rush to the doctor!

Note: What if you suddenly develop a complication?

Termed as ‘golden period’ of pregnancy, you can have an abortion if certain complications arise. For that, doctors follow, ‘dilation’ and ‘evacuation’ process which is carried over 2 to 3 days.

Miscarriage in this trimester

Though the chances of such a scenario are minimum, however, issues as – placental abruption, heart defects of fetus, infections in pelvic cavity are the most common second trimester symptoms that could lead to miscarriage.

When all’s done – here’s some planning for your new baby!

Would be mummies – when your diet chart, exercise routine and medical emergencies are managed – how about some preps for your little baby? (Clara has already decided on her girl’s nursery theme – night sky graced by stars and fairies! How about you?)

Since doctors would permit flying till 28 weeks, you can go for a baby-moon.

If possible, take a walk down the hospital where you will have your delivery.

Have a chat with your doctor about intake of medicines during labour pain, or period before that.